Ottawa County named ‘drunkest’ county in Michigan

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By Lucas Henkel

June 12, 2024

Houghton, Livingston, and Kent counties were also named as some of the “drunkest” counties in the Great Lakes State, according to data.

Did you know that 19% of Michigan residents across the state are considered excessive drinkers?

And over on the west side of the state, Ottawa County is officially the “drunkest” county in Michigan with 20% of residents being considered excessive drinkers, according to intoxistates.com. The site uses data from the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps program to compare trends across US counties.

Coincidentally, the city of Hudsonville—located in Ottawa County—voted to allow alcohol sales on November 6, 2007, ending its run as the last dry city in Michigan.

Houghton, Livingston, Kent, and Ionia counties are also amongst the drunkest counties in Michigan, according to intoxistates.com.

Counties with a higher concentration of state parks and boat launches—which typically have alcohol restrictions imposed by Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources—were found to be much “dryer”.

These rules may explain why some places—including Lake, Ontonagon, Montmorency, Alcona, and Roscommon—were named the driest counties in Michigan.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, help is available. Find resources here.

Author

Lucas Henkel

Lucas Henkel is a Reporter and Strategic Communications Producer for COURIER based in mid-Michigan, covering community stories and public policies across the country.

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CATEGORIES: LOCAL NEWS

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